Tuesday, September 9, 2014

The Basics Regarding Sci Fi Novels

By Kerri Stout


Science fiction is the name of a genre of writing. It involves stories that feature imaginative, not real, content. Typically this involves futuristic science and settings, as well as technology, space, time and light travel, and even extraterrestrials. Sci fi novels are often called literature of ideas, in that they explore potential consequences of innovations. This genre is often used by writers interested in covering literary themes, such as morality, social structure, identity, politics and desire.

No single definition is used to describe this kind of writing. It includes numerous themes and sub-genres. Sci fi literature is often considered to be rational writing about fantasized futures that could actually occur in reality.

This genre is known for being similar to fantasy. However, there are differences. Sci fi typically includes imaginary elements that are still based in science. This is not the case for all components of these stores, as sometimes they are purely imagined realities that cannot be linked to scientific studies.

Typically these novels are set during a time in the future. They might also have a historical setting that contradicts what readers know to be true based on real historical facts and records. Many of these also include settings in outer space, outside worlds or subterranean Earth. A variety of characters may be found in these stories, including mutants, aliens, humanoid robots, androids and more.

These characters may utilize technology that is plausible to the readers, such as computers, teleportation machines and ray guns. Their actions often related to scientific principles that are considered new or even contradict the physical laws we accept to be true, such as wormholes, faster-than-light communication, time travel and more. Different and new forms of social and political systems might also be included in these plot lines.

Many characters in these stories have paranormal abilities. They might be able to teleport or control minds or dabble in telekinesis or telepathy. Often times the settings involve other dimensions or universes, as well as the travel between these. There are many different components characteristic of sci fi literature, which has been around for centuries.

There are a lot of different categories, sub-genres and related genres for sci fi. This type of literature is often categorized as either hard SF or soft SF. Hard refers to close attention to accuracy of details as they related to the natural sciences. It might also be used to describe that which closely depicts the worlds that advanced technology could create. In fact, there have been accurate predictions in this sub-genre. Soft SF describes works with more focus on the social sciences, for instance: anthropology, sociology, political science, psychology and economics.

Time travel, apocalyptic, social science fiction, alternative history, post-apocalyptic, superhuman and military SF are several examples of sub-genres associated with this kind of writing. There are also many genres that are similar, such as horror fiction, mystery, fantasy, science fantasy and ci-fi. Many around the globe are fans of this style of literature and there are many authors who publish works within the genre.




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